In one state an IMOD subpixel reflects light at a specific wavelength, while in a second state it absorbs incident light and appears black to the viewer, using a diffraction grating effect.[2]When not being addressed, an IMOD display consumes very little power. Unlike conventional back-lit liquid crystal displays, it is clearly visible in bright ambient light such as sunlight. IMOD prototypes as of mid-2010 could emit 15 frames per second (fps),[3] and in November 2011 Qualcomm demonstrated another prototype reaching 30 fps, suitable for video playback.[4]

Comparison of the spectra obtained from a diffraction grating by diffraction (1), and a prism by refraction (2). Longer wavelengths (red) are diffracted more, but refracted less than shorter wavelengths (violet).

The grooves of a compact disc can act as a grating and produceiridescent reflections.